Arthotel The Great Ponsonby

Auckland's vibrant inner city suburb of Ponsonby is famous for its restaurants, cafes and shopping. It's here that you will find a tranquil haven, The Great Ponsonby Arthotel, an immaculately restored Victorian villa offering luxury boutique bed and breakfast accommodation.

Our generous hosts, Sally and Gerry, have created an oasis of style and comfort reflecting its Pacific heritage where luxury is in the details. They greet us with a warm welcome and aperitif, keen to impart their knowledge and joy of Auckland. A shared passion for art and literature is reflected in stunning local and South Pacific paintings, ceramics and textiles displayed in every room, many sourced from their own travels and all with a story to tell. Paintings by John Papas of Ponsonby, Jane Evans of Nelson, Andrew and Jeannie van der Putten's ceramics and tapa cloth to name a few.

Linger in the lounge to chat with other guests or browse the superb range of books with a New Zealand interest, wander through the lush gardens or choose the sanctuary of your guest room with iPod sound docks, TV with Sky and DVD. Eleven rooms vary in size and price with suites and studios offering kitchenettes, the Penthouse Suite mini conference facilities. Luxurious eco products grace the ensuite bathrooms, just one example of sustainability at work here.

Breakfasts are an indulgence, served in the dining room or conservatory. The extensive menu is cooked to your order and complemented by fresh fruit juices, superb coffee and a full range of organic teas. Refreshed, refuelled and equipped with insider information, we embark on a brilliant day exploring Auckland just outside our doorstep.

Whether planning a romantic escape or business retreat, everything you desire is right here, or on request it can be arranged. One, two, even three days is not enough for this exquisite slice of luxury.